After an astonishing amount of preparation, some
more still to do, we are almost ready for the 'OFF' on sunday at 1300hrs.
Lawrence came out to Las Palmas with me 10 days ago. I could never have got
ready in time without all his help which has been fantastic.

James and NIck arrived on wednesday.
Followers of these two will be amused to hear that they were both fast asleep by
10pm last night...exhausted! Skipper is assured that it is his harsh
expectations of work to be done and nothing to do with the Fancy Dress party on
wednesday night. We all went as Popeye, no volunteers for Olive
Oil. Nick brought balloons which we put under our T shirt sleeves and
painted anchors on forearms. It does appear to be true that pretty girls
are very attracted to large male muscles, we thought the pins wielded by
boyfriends were just due to envy.

The boat was lifted out of the water yesterday,
Spanish style, a lot of friendly noise and very little understanding on either
side. The crane broke down just as we were being lifted back into the
water, Lawrence and I suspended for the next two hours, with even more
noise and discussion as van after van loaded with
' experts' tried to start the engine. Fortunately James
and Nick were on dry land so they went off to do the stores shopping. This
should arrive this morning. Judging by the till receipt, nearly two metres
of it, I am sure that we will trail the fleet by some way.

We have the farewell party tonight anda final
frantic day tomorrow. I am just wary of the Skippers briefing at midday
when no doubt I will discover things I should have thought
of.

All in high spirits here getting ready
for first three days of feeling sick!